Her Royal Highness Princess Anne honoured two of Townsville’s own last week at a very special and significant investiture ceremony at Buckingham Palace. Mr Ken Mulligan, Managing Director of YWAM Medical Ships, and Dr Daryl Holmes, Managing Director of 1300SMILES, were acknowledged for their service in Papua New Guinea (PNG).
Mr Mulligan and Dr Holmes have both been awarded with an Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (OBE). Mr Mulligan received the award in acknowledgement for his services to the community and rural healthcare through YWAM Medical Ships, and Dr Holmes was recognised for services to health through support for YWAM Medical Ships.
YWAM Medical Ships Managing Director, Mr Ken Mulligan, said that the esteemed award is a wonderful acknowledgement that helps affirm and strengthen YWAM’s commitment to PNG.
“We receive this honour on behalf of so many people who have worked tirelessly and voluntarily for the people of Papua New Guinea.
“I am so grateful to our donors, hard-working volunteers, and the many supporters and friends who have helped make this possible. To receive this award beside Daryl was very special – he is a good friend and one of many who have helped us touch so many lives,” said Mr Mulligan.
Dr Daryl Holmes has supported YWAM Medical Ships since they began their operations in 2010. Dr Holmes’ support has included volunteering as a dentist on YWAM’s medical ships on an annual basis, promoting volunteering opportunities to 1300SMILES’ staff and dentists, and connecting YWAM with major dental companies – including Henry Schein Halas, who fitted out the dental clinic onboard the MV YWAM PNG in 2015.
Dr Holmes said the investiture yesterday was a humbling experience.
“It has been a joy to work with YWAM Medical Ships over the last 8 years, the journey has been life-changing for me and for 1300SMILES.
“When I reflect on the villages I’ve visited and the patients I’ve treated – it really is nothing short of a privilege and an honour,” said Dr Holmes.
The MV YWAM PNG has just completed a successful deployment to Central Province. Over 10,000 patients have received treatment and training since the vessel was sent from Townsville in July – one of the patients who received treatment last week was a young woman named Ruth* with an advanced case of Tuberculosis.
“While it is a privilege to receive an OBE, my heart continues to go out to individuals who are suffering unnecessarily. Ruth’s story reminds us again why we do what we do and we are more determined then ever to continue,” said Mr Mulligan.
*Name changed
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